By Ben Musanje
State Minister for Environment Beatrice Atim Anywar has pledged full-time loyalty and cooperation to the new Minister of Water and Environment, Rtd Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, as she delivered an emotional and reflective address during the official handover ceremony held at the Ministry headquarters in Luzira.
The ceremony marked the transition of leadership from outgoing Cabinet Minister Sam Cheptoris to Otafiire, in a reshuffle that also saw Anywar retained in her position as State Minister for Environment by President Yoweri Museveni.
Speaking before senior government officials, agency heads, technical officers, and support staff at the Ministry headquarters in Luzira on Thursday 11th June 2026, Anywar expressed gratitude for the continuity of service within the ministry, describing the moment as both a transition and a return to a familiar institutional home.
She opened her remarks with appreciation to President Museveni for her reappointment, saying she remained humbled by the confidence placed in her to continue serving in the environment docket.
“I am really humbled and I really want to thank my President for the confidence he has in me as a person,” she said, adding that she remained committed to working closely with all stakeholders to advance the ministry’s priorities.
In a speech marked by emotional reflection, Anywar paid tribute to outgoing Minister Sam Cheptoris, whom she described as both a senior leader and mentor. She credited him with providing steady leadership and strengthening the ministry’s environmental protection agenda during his tenure.
“You guided us and delegated your service to this ministry and the country. We are grateful for the foundation that has been laid and the progress achieved under your stewardship,” she said.
She particularly highlighted efforts in forest protection and environmental conservation, noting that leading the ministry often involves difficult decisions and public scrutiny. “As a minister, you are the mother of your ministry. People want to tear you apart, but we must defend our ministry,” she remarked.
Anywar praised Cheptoris for standing firm in protecting natural resources under challenging conditions, saying his leadership helped safeguard key environmental assets.
Turning to the incoming minister, Rtd Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, she welcomed him warmly while noting the weight of responsibility that comes with the portfolio. She described the ministry as highly sensitive due to its central role in service delivery, environmental protection, and public expectations.
She expressed confidence that Otafiire’s leadership would strengthen the ministry, while humorously noting that the presence of a military general would bring added firmness to the docket.
The minister also acknowledged her fellow State Minister, senior technical leadership, and agency heads, praising their role in ensuring continuity and effective service delivery. She singled out the Permanent Secretary and technical teams for what she described as tireless commitment and professionalism.
“Our technical team are the foot soldiers. We can only shine when you make us shine,” she said, adding that policy direction and implementation depend heavily on their expertise.
Anywar further commended agencies such as the National Water and Sewerage Corporation and environmental regulatory bodies for improved responsiveness and service delivery, noting that she often personally followed up on service disruptions.
She emphasized that political leaders and technical officers must work in close coordination, describing the ministry as a shared system where success depends on collective effort. “We depend on each other. Do your part, I do my part. We all shine and we all survive,” she said.
In her closing remarks, Anywar pledged unwavering support to the new leadership, stating that she remained fully available to serve at any time, including beyond official working hours.
“I am a foot soldier. My phone is always on. You can call me even at midnight,” she said, underscoring her commitment to teamwork and responsiveness.
She concluded by reaffirming her loyalty to the incoming minister and expressing confidence in continued collaboration to advance the ministry’s mandate. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
